Sustain Our Shellfish
Shellfish are part of Rhode Island’s vibrant seafood economy. The culture and heritage of our state is reflected in our legendary quahogs and delicious oysters. Shellfish have sustained generations of harvesters, and they delight tourists and Rhode Islanders alike. What’s more, they are a point of pride for us in Rhode Island.
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You can imagine my delight, then, when I was invited to attend the launch of the Rhode Island Shellfish Initiative at the University of Rhode Island. This initiative is aimed at addressing challenges facing the shellfish industry, including the effects of climate change, and attracting and training new industry members and improving the marketing of local seafood in Rhode Island. It will further efforts to sustainably manage local shellfish; promote job and economic growth; and celebrate Rhode Island’s food culture. Shellfish are ecologically sustainable, nutritious and a source of strength for our economy.
The Shellfish Initiative also ties into the great work of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in protecting our waters, coasts and other maritime resources. I led 53 of my fellow Members of Congress in a letter requesting robust funding for NOAA in our federal budget; the need is urgent after budget cuts proposed by President Trump. NOAA supports our state in many ways, and we need to continue to support NOAA’s mission.
Through continued cooperation and partnership with state leaders, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the R.I. Shellfishermen’s Association and the East Coast Shellfish Growers Association, we can help protect and expand this resource in our waters.
